Most people associate the start of the Christmas season on the day after Thanksgiving or December 1st.  Not me.  Mine starts on November 1st – the day after Halloween.  Christmas is (in my opinion) the BEST time of the year.  I love everything about it, even the snow and cold weather.  One of my favorite things about Christmas is the slew of good movies devoted entirely to this holiday, and I’ve already watched several.  Here is my list of must-watch movies:

The Family Stone  I can’t believe how much I love this movie.  I watch it at least 3 times every Christmas.  I love it more and more every time I watch it (the entire ensemble cast is brilliant in it!).

The Muppet Christmas Carol  A classic.  Can’t believe I was only 10 years old when this came out!

Christmas in Connecticut  This movie is utterly gorgeous, and the story of the romance is slightly scandalous.  Oh, and I love the names of the main characters, Jefferson Jones and Elizabeth Lane.

While you were Sleeping  Love this quirky romance with another great ensemble cast.

Santa Claus: The Movie  Almost a decade before Tim Allen played Santa, there was a much better, slightly odd, and classic 80’s movie called Santa Claus.  All I can say is, watch it.

Little Women  Not technically just a Christmas movie, but I have to watch this every year (and yes, I have always wanted to be just like Jo March, except in my story, I would have said YES to marrying Laurie).

Christmas Vacation  This movie has been a family favorite for many years, and gets quoted frequently.  I’m happy to have a dad that is like Clark Griswold:)

Love Actually  I love the romantic story telling in this movie, and it makes me miss London very much.

The Christmas Toy  This is another Jim Henson classic, but came much earlier (1986) and was a made-for-tv movie.  The story line bears a striking resemblance to Toy Story, but I suppose Jim Henson’s genius was copied many times.  If you and your kids haven’t seen this movie, please watch it.  I know you’ll love it.

What is your favorite Christmas movie?